Psychiatrists in Liberty Township, OH

Photo of Brian Soto, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brian Soto
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My ideal client is someone seeking help for challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, or addiction, who is ready to take steps toward mental wellness. They want a compassionate, patient-centered approach tailored to their needs. Their goal is to regain balance, build resilience, and improve overall quality of life. Whether they’re an adult or a child, I support them by creating a safe space to explore their feelings and develop a personalized plan to foster healing and growth.
My ideal client is someone seeking help for challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, or addiction, who is ready to take steps toward mental wellness. They want a compassionate, patient-centered approach tailored to their needs. Their goal is to regain balance, build resilience, and improve overall quality of life. Whether they’re an adult or a child, I support them by creating a safe space to explore their feelings and develop a personalized plan to foster healing and growth.
(216) 285-1708 View (216) 285-1708
Photo of Ashley Michelle Roden, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Michelle Roden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I provide outpatient psychiatric services to individuals from age 8 through geriatrics, focusing on a wide range of mental health conditions—from depression and anxiety to schizophrenia and beyond. My goal is to offer comprehensive, personalized care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. I believe in creating a safe, confidential, and professional environment where my patients can feel comfortable and supported.
I provide outpatient psychiatric services to individuals from age 8 through geriatrics, focusing on a wide range of mental health conditions—from depression and anxiety to schizophrenia and beyond. My goal is to offer comprehensive, personalized care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. I believe in creating a safe, confidential, and professional environment where my patients can feel comfortable and supported.
(937) 600-6866 View (937) 600-6866
Photo of LaVinda McAuliffe - OwlBridge Wellness, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
OwlBridge Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
“Seek Wisdom” (the owl) originates from the knowledge that our providers have gained through their years of education and through their commitment to staying current on the dynamics and developments of an ever-improving and changing health care environment. Seek Wellness” (the bridge) is our commitment to educate and inform our patients so that they can take the most prudent course in ensuring their health and well-being. By following the medical and behavioral treatments of our providers, our patients can achieve the wellness that should define their lives.
“Seek Wisdom” (the owl) originates from the knowledge that our providers have gained through their years of education and through their commitment to staying current on the dynamics and developments of an ever-improving and changing health care environment. Seek Wellness” (the bridge) is our commitment to educate and inform our patients so that they can take the most prudent course in ensuring their health and well-being. By following the medical and behavioral treatments of our providers, our patients can achieve the wellness that should define their lives.
(513) 279-8035 View (513) 279-8035
Photo of Harmony Mamutse, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Harmony Mamutse
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Mental health does not define who you are, it does not have to take over your life. We all fight our inner - battles differently. Some need help to navigate through different emotional roadblocks. You should know there is hope for you to guide you and help you overcome your struggles whether you have depression, anxiety, PTSD or other mental health diseases. I will work with you to address the inner emotional issues that you experience. We will work together to analyze root cause, modify, treat and manage the behavioral health struggles you go through. I currently offer Telehealth psych services ONLY
Mental health does not define who you are, it does not have to take over your life. We all fight our inner - battles differently. Some need help to navigate through different emotional roadblocks. You should know there is hope for you to guide you and help you overcome your struggles whether you have depression, anxiety, PTSD or other mental health diseases. I will work with you to address the inner emotional issues that you experience. We will work together to analyze root cause, modify, treat and manage the behavioral health struggles you go through. I currently offer Telehealth psych services ONLY
(513) 717-5366 View (513) 717-5366
Photo of Amanda Hardesty, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda Hardesty
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Amanda is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner and was a previous trauma nurse of 10+ years. She has a vast array of experience in psychiatric services. Amanda's goal is to provide an empathetic, engaged and client centered service and care for medication management.
Amanda is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner and was a previous trauma nurse of 10+ years. She has a vast array of experience in psychiatric services. Amanda's goal is to provide an empathetic, engaged and client centered service and care for medication management.
(937) 860-2525 View (937) 860-2525
Photo of Dr. Cathleen McKnight - Sirona Mental Wellness, DNP, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, NCMP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sirona Mental Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, NCMP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I believe that individuals deserve a safe, nonjudgmental space to talk openly about their story. The health and medical world can be scary, but it doesn’t have to be. I work toward creating a warm and inviting environment where the client is an expert on self and the provider is an expert in support. Together, we explore health and mental wellness, pathways for progress, and best-fit care plans. Mental wellness is a journey, not a destination. My goal is to be a tool to each client through preventive and routine mental wellness, and each triumph and tribulation that they experience. - Dr. Cathleen McKnight
I believe that individuals deserve a safe, nonjudgmental space to talk openly about their story. The health and medical world can be scary, but it doesn’t have to be. I work toward creating a warm and inviting environment where the client is an expert on self and the provider is an expert in support. Together, we explore health and mental wellness, pathways for progress, and best-fit care plans. Mental wellness is a journey, not a destination. My goal is to be a tool to each client through preventive and routine mental wellness, and each triumph and tribulation that they experience. - Dr. Cathleen McKnight
(513) 866-3753 View (513) 866-3753
Photo of Reyna Gilmore - A Ray of Hope Counseling and Health Services, Dr, LISW-S, LISW, LICDC, LPCC-S, Psychiatrist
A Ray of Hope Counseling and Health Services
Psychiatrist, Dr, LISW-S, LISW, LICDC, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Serves Area
We are a faith-based counseling center. We believe that healing begins with God. Our clients have the option to choose prayer during their sessions. This is not mandatory but if they are in need we will pray with them. We are providers that offer hope and encouragement. We will help you to meet your goals and will help you through your struggles. As your Therapist, Counselor, and Psychologist I will ensure that you have a safe, supportive, and encouraging place to make the desired changes you are seeking. I work with people across the Cincinnati, Ohio area.
We are a faith-based counseling center. We believe that healing begins with God. Our clients have the option to choose prayer during their sessions. This is not mandatory but if they are in need we will pray with them. We are providers that offer hope and encouragement. We will help you to meet your goals and will help you through your struggles. As your Therapist, Counselor, and Psychologist I will ensure that you have a safe, supportive, and encouraging place to make the desired changes you are seeking. I work with people across the Cincinnati, Ohio area.
(513) 275-4677 View (513) 275-4677

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Keshia Nichole Jordan, CNP, CARN-AP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Keshia Nichole Jordan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, CARN-AP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Hamilton, OH 45011
At Most Hope Treatment Center, we will help our clients with their mental health and addiction needs by providing convenient, compassionate, care and making their success the number one priority at our practice.
At Most Hope Treatment Center, we will help our clients with their mental health and addiction needs by providing convenient, compassionate, care and making their success the number one priority at our practice.
(513) 654-6327 View (513) 654-6327
Photo of Shannon Bailey, APRN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Bailey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, RN
Verified Verified
Fairfield, OH 45014
Hi, I’m Shannon. As an Emergency Department nurse for seven years, I became passionate about caring for each individual on a more personal level. Wanting this connection with my patients, along with having experienced personal and family mental health concerns of my own, led me to pursue my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree from Northern Kentucky University. During my educational pursuits, my desire to provide mental health care across the lifespan in areas of need including anxiety, depression, ADHD, personality disorders and substance use disorders came to the forefront.
Hi, I’m Shannon. As an Emergency Department nurse for seven years, I became passionate about caring for each individual on a more personal level. Wanting this connection with my patients, along with having experienced personal and family mental health concerns of my own, led me to pursue my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree from Northern Kentucky University. During my educational pursuits, my desire to provide mental health care across the lifespan in areas of need including anxiety, depression, ADHD, personality disorders and substance use disorders came to the forefront.
(513) 957-2758 View (513) 957-2758
Photo of Miranda Johnson, PMHNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Miranda Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
I’m a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to supporting my clients’ mental health journeys. I earned my Bachelor of Science from Ohio University in 2017 and completed my Master of Science at Ohio State University in 2023. My experience as a Clinical Research Coordinator at The James Cancer Comprehensive Cancer Center in Columbus, Ohio, helped me develop a deep empathy and understanding for my patients.
I’m a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to supporting my clients’ mental health journeys. I earned my Bachelor of Science from Ohio University in 2017 and completed my Master of Science at Ohio State University in 2023. My experience as a Clinical Research Coordinator at The James Cancer Comprehensive Cancer Center in Columbus, Ohio, helped me develop a deep empathy and understanding for my patients.
(513) 613-2903 View (513) 613-2903
Photo of Mark Tuvelle, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mark Tuvelle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I strive to provide a safe and welcoming environment and want to always ensure that my clients feel they are “being listened to”. I believe a provider must truly listen to understand their client’s concerns, thus ensuring that the patient's priorities are being addressed. I prioritize health promotion, patient education, and psychotherapy.
I strive to provide a safe and welcoming environment and want to always ensure that my clients feel they are “being listened to”. I believe a provider must truly listen to understand their client’s concerns, thus ensuring that the patient's priorities are being addressed. I prioritize health promotion, patient education, and psychotherapy.
(380) 207-1922 View (380) 207-1922
Photo of Anthony Koch, PMHNP, BC, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anthony Koch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, DNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi, I'm Anthony, a Psychiatric NP & owner of Feel Better & Co., We specialize in supporting individuals facing mental health challenges through personalized telehealth therapy. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or any other condition, we're here to provide compassionate guidance. Our approach integrates physical, emotional, social, and spiritual dimensions to foster holistic wellness.
Hi, I'm Anthony, a Psychiatric NP & owner of Feel Better & Co., We specialize in supporting individuals facing mental health challenges through personalized telehealth therapy. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or any other condition, we're here to provide compassionate guidance. Our approach integrates physical, emotional, social, and spiritual dimensions to foster holistic wellness.
(419) 834-9244 View (419) 834-9244
Photo of Jonathan Cole - Mindfully Psychiatry & TMS Services, MD, MH-PNP, DO, Psychiatrist
Mindfully Psychiatry & TMS Services
Psychiatrist, MD, MH-PNP, DO
Verified Verified
Fairfield, OH 45014
Mindfully is the premier full-service mental health practice in OH. We offer comprehensive psychiatry services, including psychiatric medication management and cutting edge Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation is specifically used for medication-resistant major depression and OCD, and has a 70% success rate with zero side effects. All of our services are covered by most major insurance, Medicaid and Medicare.
Mindfully is the premier full-service mental health practice in OH. We offer comprehensive psychiatry services, including psychiatric medication management and cutting edge Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation is specifically used for medication-resistant major depression and OCD, and has a 70% success rate with zero side effects. All of our services are covered by most major insurance, Medicaid and Medicare.
(513) 450-8386 View (513) 450-8386
Photo of Selena Willen, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Selena Willen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Skye Willen, and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a strong passion for working with both pediatric and adult populations. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective mental health care, helping individuals achieve well-being and improve their quality of life. In my free time, I love to travel and take photographs. I also enjoy reading, hiking, swimming, and skiing. Walking my dog and spending time with my family are some of my favorite ways to relax and recharge.
My name is Skye Willen, and I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a strong passion for working with both pediatric and adult populations. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective mental health care, helping individuals achieve well-being and improve their quality of life. In my free time, I love to travel and take photographs. I also enjoy reading, hiking, swimming, and skiing. Walking my dog and spending time with my family are some of my favorite ways to relax and recharge.
(216) 868-4837 View (216) 868-4837
Photo of Nyla Bintu Smith - Nyla Bintu Smith, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nyla Bintu Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
Ark wellness Center is a treatment center focused on mental health and substance use disorders. We believe that all people have the right to quality care/services. Ark Wellness Center provides an environment that is safe and non-judgmental. We allow you and your loved ones to play an active role to achieve recovery. Some of the services we provide include; a comprehensive assessment, anxiety, depression, medication management, substance abuse, bipolar, schizophrenia, PTSD, OCD, and other conditions both onsite/virtual. Ark Wellness provides care for patients ages 65+, adults and teens. It is your time to break the cycle and we are here to help you all the way to achieve your goal. Call us now. Our focus is mainly on you and your journey.
Ark wellness Center is a treatment center focused on mental health and substance use disorders. We believe that all people have the right to quality care/services. Ark Wellness Center provides an environment that is safe and non-judgmental. We allow you and your loved ones to play an active role to achieve recovery. Some of the services we provide include; a comprehensive assessment, anxiety, depression, medication management, substance abuse, bipolar, schizophrenia, PTSD, OCD, and other conditions both onsite/virtual. Ark Wellness provides care for patients ages 65+, adults and teens. It is your time to break the cycle and we are here to help you all the way to achieve your goal. Call us now. Our focus is mainly on you and your journey.
(513) 647-6377 View (513) 647-6377
Photo of Crystal Ravenel Farrell - A Crystal Mind, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
A Crystal Mind
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45241
Start YOUR Journey to Inner Peace!! A Crystal Mind's goal is to expand access to mental healthcare while assisting patients on their journeys to become the best versions of themselves. We use a variety of evidenced-based practices to provide a holistic, client-centered, culturally-sensitive approach. We will listen to your unique story and come up with a comprehensive plan that best fits your personal needs. The experienced provider is a dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner. She has over 20yrs of nursing experience and has worked in various clinical settings.
Start YOUR Journey to Inner Peace!! A Crystal Mind's goal is to expand access to mental healthcare while assisting patients on their journeys to become the best versions of themselves. We use a variety of evidenced-based practices to provide a holistic, client-centered, culturally-sensitive approach. We will listen to your unique story and come up with a comprehensive plan that best fits your personal needs. The experienced provider is a dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner. She has over 20yrs of nursing experience and has worked in various clinical settings.
(513) 434-6344 View (513) 434-6344
Photo of Paul J Schwartz, MD, Psychiatrist
Paul J Schwartz
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
Not accepting new clients
I am a psychiatrist, psychopharmacologist, and psychoanalyst who has received my clinical and psychopharmacology training at Yale University, the National Institute of Mental Health, the VA Medical Center, and the Cincinnati Psychoanalytic Institute. I practice psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and psychopharmacology. If you are having serious difficulties with your mental health, call me.
I am a psychiatrist, psychopharmacologist, and psychoanalyst who has received my clinical and psychopharmacology training at Yale University, the National Institute of Mental Health, the VA Medical Center, and the Cincinnati Psychoanalytic Institute. I practice psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and psychopharmacology. If you are having serious difficulties with your mental health, call me.
(513) 770-1209 View (513) 770-1209
Photo of Angela Marie Strotman, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angela Marie Strotman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45239
Waitlist for new clients
Everyone’s path to wellness can look much different. I view each person as an individual and create a plan that is unique to you and your struggles. I believe that anyone who takes the path to wellness deserves to have a voice and to be treated with respect and empowerment. I treat patients of all ages from 5+. I enjoy working with both children and adults. I am currently pursuing specialty certification in Perinatal Mental Health to treat women both during and after their pregnancy. I have also been certified in pediatrics and critical care as an RN. I strive to help patient's with their overall health.
Everyone’s path to wellness can look much different. I view each person as an individual and create a plan that is unique to you and your struggles. I believe that anyone who takes the path to wellness deserves to have a voice and to be treated with respect and empowerment. I treat patients of all ages from 5+. I enjoy working with both children and adults. I am currently pursuing specialty certification in Perinatal Mental Health to treat women both during and after their pregnancy. I have also been certified in pediatrics and critical care as an RN. I strive to help patient's with their overall health.
(513) 447-6083 View (513) 447-6083
Photo of Gagandeep Kaur Dhaliwal, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gagandeep Kaur Dhaliwal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Middletown, OH 45005
Hii, I am Gagandeep Dhaliwal (Gigi). I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I graduated from Northern Kentucky University. I work with individuals across the lifespan who are struggling with mental health challenges. Mental health challenges can negatively affect nearly every aspect of a person's life. When mental health issues are not managed or addressed, they can interfere with emotions, behavior, physical health, relationships, and overall functioning.
Hii, I am Gagandeep Dhaliwal (Gigi). I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I graduated from Northern Kentucky University. I work with individuals across the lifespan who are struggling with mental health challenges. Mental health challenges can negatively affect nearly every aspect of a person's life. When mental health issues are not managed or addressed, they can interfere with emotions, behavior, physical health, relationships, and overall functioning.
(513) 279-8035 View (513) 279-8035
Photo of Daniel S. Hardy, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, PMGT-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Daniel S. Hardy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, PMGT-BC
Verified Verified
Hamilton, OH 45013
Most of my clients are queer, neurodivergent, chronically ill, and/or disabled. They may seek help with transition concerns, psychiatric medication, identifying/confirming a diagnosis, or overall support for living in a society that's a poor fit. Whatever their need, they're seeking someone comfortable with the diversity of experiences that our identities bring and how these intersect in society.
Most of my clients are queer, neurodivergent, chronically ill, and/or disabled. They may seek help with transition concerns, psychiatric medication, identifying/confirming a diagnosis, or overall support for living in a society that's a poor fit. Whatever their need, they're seeking someone comfortable with the diversity of experiences that our identities bring and how these intersect in society.
(513) 845-3284 View (513) 845-3284

See more therapy options for Liberty Township

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Liberty Township, OH

< 10

Psychiatrists in Liberty Township, OH who prioritize treating:

86% Depression
86% Anxiety
86% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
86% Bipolar Disorder
86% Sleep or Insomnia
71% Trauma and PTSD
71% Behavioral Issues

Average years in practice

18 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Liberty Township, OH see their clients

72% In Person and Online
28% Online Only

Gender breakdown

58% Female
42% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Liberty Township?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.